Illinois state police catch shaving, texting drivers

While state troopers only issued the shaver a warning, spokeswoman Monique Bond say about 130 other motorists were ticketed for distracted driving during a two-and-a-half hour period Monday.

The Trucker News Services

10/1/2013

CHICAGO — Illinois State Police say a man who was shaving was one of dozens of people stopped by officers patrolling a Chicago expressway for distracted drivers.

While state troopers only issued the shaver a warning, spokeswoman Monique Bond say about 130 other motorists were ticketed for distracted driving during a two-and-a-half hour period Monday. Most were ticketed for texting while driving. Members of the Distracted Driving Enforcement Detail patrolled the Kennedy Expressway, which meanders through Chicago's North Side.

State Police Lt. David Byrd says texting and driving is nearly as dangerous as drunken driving, noting rear-end accidents are common, especially during rush hour.

While Chicago has an ordinance banning drivers from talking on their phones, state police don't enforce it. Byrd said troopers will enforce a statewide ban beginning Jan. 1.